SANTA FE, N.M. – The Santa Fe Police Department has released video of an incident where a drone aided officers in capturing a suspected vehicle thief, KOAT reported.
Officers initiated a traffic stop after locating a suspect in a vehicle matching the description of a vehicle reported stolen, according to the report. An officer arrived at an apartment complex parking lot where several cars were parked after spotting the stolen red pickup truck.
“Santa Fe Police! Let me see your hands!” the officer can be heard shouting on dash camera video.
Video then shows the suspect driving over a curb and sidewalk to drive away.
Officers then deployed a drone to track down the suspect and stolen truck. After locating the suspect, the unmanned aerial system operator provided a description of the area to officers who then staged an area to arrest the suspect.
Drone footage shows officers finding and detaining the suspect on foot. The vehicle was also located, according to the report.
Police said the suspect was in custody within nearly 15 minutes of receiving the alert for the stolen vehicle.
“This was a successful apprehension by our talented and dedicated staff that utilized great police work, use of available technology resources and effective communication,” police said in a statement.
